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Countries with the Largest Homeless Populations in 2025
1. Pakistan Leads the World with Over 8 Million Homeless People
Pakistan continues to face a significant homelessness crisis, with estimates indicating that approximately 8 million individuals are living without stable shelter. Urban centers like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad see thousands of families either homeless on the streets or dependent on informal shelters, often due to ongoing economic struggles, natural disasters, and population growth.
The government has launched some initiatives, but challenges remain, especially in rapidly expanding informal settlements that lack basic services.
2. Syria’s Post-War Displacement Still Challenges the Nation with Over 5.3 Million Homeless
Despite the end of active conflict, Syria’s housing crisis persists, with around 5.3 million Syrians unable to access permanent homes. Many families still reside in makeshift camps, informal settlements, or overcrowded apartments. Reconstruction efforts have been slow, compounded by economic sanctions and ongoing instability in certain regions. This ongoing housing shortage continues to push vulnerable populations onto the streets or into overcrowded shelters.
3. Bangladesh Faces a Homelessness Crisis with Approximately 5 Million People
In Bangladesh, rapid urbanization and natural disasters like flooding have exacerbated homelessness, especially in densely populated cities like Dhaka and Chittagong. Over 5 million people lack proper housing, often living in slums or makeshift shelters with limited access to sanitation and basic services. The government is under pressure to develop affordable housing options amidst economic constraints.
4. Nigeria and the Philippines Each Have Around 4.5 Million Homeless Residents
Nigeria’s legal and economic system struggles to cope with a homeless population estimated at 4.5 million. Many are displaced by violence, poverty, or natural disasters. Similarly, the Philippines, also with approximately 4.5 million homeless individuals, grapples with housing shortages, natural calamities, and urban migration. The urban poor often live in hazardous conditions, risking health and safety daily.
5. Uganda’s Homelessness Surges Past 4 Million
With over 4 million homeless people, Uganda faces a pressing housing shortage driven by internal displacement, poverty, and rapid urban expansion. Many families live in informal settlements that lack access to clean water, sanitation, and secure shelter. Local governments are working on policies to improve housing density and affordable options, but progress remains slow.
6. Argentina and Sudan Continue to Struggle with Large Homeless Populations
Argentina reports about 3.6 million homeless residents, often concentrated in major cities like Buenos Aires, where economic instability and housing shortages create a vulnerable population living on the streets or in informal dwellings. Sudan’s crisis, with around 3 million homeless, is driven by ongoing conflicts, economic crisis, and displacement due to war, particularly in Darfur and other conflict zones.
7. China and Nepal Experience Persistent Homeless Challenges
China’s urbanization has led to a significant homeless population estimated at approximately 2.6 million, mostly in major cities where affordable housing is scarce. Efforts to boost social housing are ongoing. Meanwhile, Nepal, with approximately 2.5 million homeless persons, suffers from earthquake damage, poverty, and rural-urban migration, which increase the pressure on existing shelter options.
8. Egypt and Iraq Also Facing Housing Crises with 2 Million Homeless
Egypt, with around 2 million homeless individuals, struggles with slum development and urban in-migration. Poor infrastructure and economic hardship are key factors. Iraq’s ongoing conflict and displacement contribute to its 2 million homeless residents, many of whom are returning or remain displaced in camps or urban shantytowns.
9. India’s Massive Homeless Population Approaching 1.8 Million
India, often cited as having the world’s largest population, reports approximately 1.77 million homeless individuals. The scale of informal settlements, poverty, and rural-urban migration continues to fuel homelessness, especially in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. The government’s efforts to increase affordable housing are ongoing but face infrastructural and policy challenges.
10. Countries in Africa and South America Also Hit Hard by Homelessness
DR Congo and Myanmar each report around 1.5 million homeless people, often displaced due to conflict, disease, or natural disasters. Zimbabwe, Peru, and Burkina Faso also see large numbers, with estimates of over 700,000 homeless in each country. These figures reflect ongoing instability and economic struggles across the continent and South America.
The United States and the UK Continue to Deal with Urban Homelessness
The United States, with an estimated 653,000 homeless residents in 2025, faces ongoing crises in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle. Chronic homelessness, mental health issues, and housing affordability are primary concerns. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s homelessness crisis persists, with around 380,000 individuals without stable housing, due in part to austerity measures and housing shortages.
The Future of Global Homelessness
Despite various national efforts—ranging from affordable housing initiatives to social programs—the global homelessness crisis remains widespread. Governments, NGOs, and international organizations are working toward sustainable solutions, but challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and political instability continue to hinder progress. The need for comprehensive strategies combining affordable housing, social support, and economic development is more urgent than ever in 2025.
Note: Figures are approximate and based on the latest available data from the OECD report and world surveys in 2025.
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